First, I just want to say that I really, really don’t like running in the heat with the sun baking down onto me. Apparently, though, I dislike getting up early on a Sunday even more. That might explain why I was out running at noon when it was 85 degrees rather than at seven when it was 65. Ah, well. No clouds either, which really sucked, although at least there wasn’t much humidity (55% or so).

Anyway, I figured that I’d just listen to my body and take it easy. Went to the local park, took Bear for the first three and a half miles or so and then handed him off to my darling wife (he was pretty hot by that point). I intentionally didn’t time myself, just ran slow and long for seven laps around the park - 8.4 miles total. If I had to guess, I’d put me the run at about a 9:30 pace but hey, who knows. I did kick the last mile up to about my 8:15 pace though, I couldn’t help myself (and it felt so good - actually, with the sun beating down it felt lousy, but the breeze was wonderfully cooling).

I wasn’t sure yesterday what I wanted to do, but I figured that especially with the 10k coming up, getting some more distance under my belt was a good thing. My breathing was fine, but my HR definately rose as the shade disappeared. At least I did it non-stop … not always easy considering that I was Gallowalking last year … and did it all without any mid-run fluids. I also made sure not to eat anything before heading out (nothing since dinner on Saturday actually). My calves were a little sore, but otherwise no complaints.

Tomorrow morning - I’d like to hit the gym, but I’ll be working early instead. I’ll go by on the way home from work for three miles and some form of leg workout.

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